NFL

NFL news, rumors and injuries

The NFL has officially finalized new rules for kickoffs this season, including eliminating a running start downfield after a kickoff. Other changes include more players closer to where the ball is and limitations on blocking schemes.

Free-agent QB Johnny Manziel (Browns) has announced that he will be signing with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League. He is scheduled to receive a two-year contract, according to a source.

Free-agent QB Matt Moore (Dolphins) may wait until the 2018 regular season starts before signing with a team in order to see which teams will need quarterback help, according to sources. He has received some interest from the Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Texans this offseason.

Free-agent TE/OL Crockett Gillmore (knee) needed to undergo another surgery on his knee earlier this offseason, according to sources. The Baltimore Ravens may have interest in re-signing Gillmore, but he would need to be able to pass a physical.

Free-agent CB Adam Jones (Bengals) pronounced himself ready to go after receiving clearance from doctors recently. Jones had groin surgery the week after the Super Bowl and told Sirius XM NFL Radio he has been in contact with several teams.

Free-agent TE Coby Fleener (concussion) is still trying to get medically cleared after suffering a concussion he suffered in Week 12 of the 2017 season, according to New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton.

Free-agent RB Adrian Peterson (Cardinals) said he is "fully healthy" and "ready to go" for the upcoming season. In addition, he said his neck has been cleared by "multiple doctors."

Fantasy Tip: Peterson showed some flashes of his old dominant self this past season after he latched onto the Cardinals following his release in New Orleans. The 33-year-old ultimately finished with 529 yards on 156 carries and found the end zone twice. He probably still has something to offer, but more so as a complementary or change-of-pace back.

The home of the Tennessee Titans, Nashville, Tenn., is the favorite to host the 2019 NFL draft, according to sources. A final decision is expected to be announced at the NFL's spring meeting in late May.

Free-agent RB Orleans Darkwa (Giants) underwent minor surgery Wednesday, May 9, to remove a plate from his leg that was put in last offseason. Darkwa's fracture fully healed and he is expected to make a full recovery in four weeks.

Free-agent DE Cliff Avril (Seahawks) was hired by Seattle radio station 950 KJR-AM on Tuesday, May 8, but he has not officially retired. To return, Avril would need to be cleared by a doctor following his neck injury last season.